Ultimate Guide to the Best Tourist Places in Kerala
Kerala, often referred to as "God’s Own Country," offers a diverse range of attractions, from serene backwaters to lush tea plantations and historic cities. This guide highlights the best tourist places in Kerala, perfect for families, nature lovers, and history buffs. Whether you’re exploring the misty hills of Munnar or the vibrant streets of Kochi, there’s something for every traveler.
Table of Contents
1. Munnar - The Hill Station Paradise
Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala, known for its sprawling tea plantations, misty hills, and cool climate. It is perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Popular spots include Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi Peak, and Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, the highest tea plantation in the world.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Must-Visit Places: Echo Point, Mattupetty Dam, Tea Museum
Activities: Trekking, wildlife spotting, and tea plantation tours
2. Wayanad - The Green Haven
Wayanad, a tranquil district nestled in the Western Ghats, is famous for its waterfalls, caves, and wildlife sanctuaries. It’s a perfect destination for families seeking a peaceful retreat in nature. Visit the Edakkal Caves for ancient rock carvings or go on a safari at Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit: October to May
Must-Visit Places: Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak, Pookode Lake
Activities: Trekking, wildlife safaris, exploring tribal culture
3. Kochi - The Queen of the Arabian Sea
Kochi, or Cochin, is a vibrant port city that blends modernity with rich colonial history. Explore the historic Fort Kochi, stroll by the Chinese Fishing Nets, and visit the Jewish Synagogue in Mattancherry. This city also offers scenic backwater tours and is known for its delicious seafood.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Must-Visit Places: Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Marine Drive
Activities: Cultural tours, heritage walks, backwater cruises
4. Alleppey - The Backwater Wonderland
Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East," is renowned for its backwaters and houseboat experiences. It’s a must-visit for families and couples looking to relax on tranquil waters. The annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race held here is also a major attraction.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Must-Visit Places: Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha Beach, Pathiramanal Island
Activities: Houseboat cruises, fishing, village tours
5. Kovalam - Beach Bliss
Kovalam is Kerala's most famous beach destination, offering crescent-shaped sandy beaches lined with palm trees. You can enjoy water sports, sunbathing, and Ayurvedic massages here. Kovalam’s Lighthouse Beach is the most popular, offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
Best Time to Visit: September to May
Must-Visit Places: Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium
Activities: Surfing, swimming, Ayurvedic treatments
6. Thekkady - Wildlife Adventure
For wildlife enthusiasts, Thekkady offers the best experience with Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can spot elephants, tigers, and a variety of bird species. Boating in Periyar Lake offers a scenic view of the lush forests and animals drinking by the water’s edge.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Must-Visit Places: Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Spice Plantations, Periyar Lake
Activities: Boating, wildlife safaris, trekking
7. Varkala - Coastal Beauty
Varkala is a coastal town known for its cliff-side beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Varkala Beach is famous for its natural springs believed to have medicinal properties, and the view from the cliffs is spectacular.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Must-Visit Places: Varkala Beach, Sivagiri Mutt, Papanasam Beach
Activities: Water sports, Ayurvedic treatments, temple visits
8. Bekal - Fort and Beaches
Bekal is famous for the Bekal Fort, a historical marvel overlooking the Arabian Sea. The nearby Bekal Beach offers a peaceful retreat for families, making it a great destination for history and beach lovers alike.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Must-Visit Places: Bekal Fort, Bekal Beach, Chandragiri Fort
Activities: Exploring forts, beach picnics
9. Thrissur - Cultural Capital
Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala, best known for its vibrant Thrissur Pooram Festival. It’s also home to ancient temples and churches. Visit the Vadakkunnathan Temple and explore Kerala's traditional art forms at the Kerala Kalamandalam.
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Must-Visit Places: Vadakkunnathan Temple, Athirappilly Waterfalls
Activities: Cultural tours, temple visits
10. Kumarakom - Backwater Delight
Kumarakom is another serene backwater destination located on the shores of Vembanad Lake. It’s perfect for a relaxing houseboat ride or bird watching at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit: September to March
Must-Visit Places: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake
Activities: Bird watching, houseboat cruises
Comparison Table: Best Tourist Places in Kerala
Place | Best For | Key Attractions | Best Time to Visit |
Munnar | Nature, Adventure | Eravikulam National Park, Anamudi | September - March |
Wayanad | Nature, Culture | Edakkal Caves, Chembra Peak | October - May |
Kochi | Culture, History | Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace | October - February |
Alleppey | Backwaters, Relaxation | Vembanad Lake, Houseboat Cruises | October - March |
Kovalam | Beaches, Water Sports | Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach | September - May |
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Kerala?
The best time to visit Kerala is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
2. How many days are recommended for a Kerala trip?
A 7-10 day itinerary is ideal to explore key places like Munnar, Wayanad, Kochi, Alleppey, and Thekkady.
3. Is Kerala good for family vacations?
Yes, Kerala offers diverse family-friendly destinations including beaches, hill stations, and wildlife sanctuaries.
4. What are some must-try activities in Kerala?
Don't miss a houseboat cruise in Alleppey, tea plantation tours in Munnar, and wildlife safaris in Thekkady.
Plan your Kerala trip and explore the beauty and culture of this incredible state!
Sources: (
India Travel Planner
)ps://w(
Honeymoon Bug
)om/blo(
)-kerala-with-family/), Honeymoonbug, TravelTriangle.
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